Stanisland Magazine

Israel will be allowed to compete in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest sparking backlash and boycotts

Israel will be allowed to officially participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, stirring controversy within the show’s ranks. Israel has been accused of numerous human rights abuses, including genocide, land theft, and more. Estimated figures assess more than 70,000 Gazans have been killed, and approximately 1,000 in the West-Bank.

The decision was made by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) without a public vote or consultation from its member states. Instead, a “secret ballot” was held between board-level executives.

Outpouring of Condemnation

The move has sparked outrage and derision beyond Europe, with many calling it a double standard due to Russia’s ban from the competition.

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Israel has been engaged in what many perceive as a conflict, though human rights organisations are calling it a “genocide”.

While a full roll-call was not published, some sources claim that Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Sweden voted in favour of Tel Aviv’s re-admission.

Double Standards

Russia has also been excluded from the Eurovision Song Contest in what many experts say present very similar historical parallels. Israeli forces invaded Palestine in 1948, claiming it was their “homeland”.

In much the same way, Russia invaded Ukraine on the back of the same pretext. However, the EBU’s Executive Board has not held a ballot to allow Moscow to re-enter the competition again. Instead, that decision was made by its Executive Board following a recommendation by its governing body.

Nations Boycott

Following the decision, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands have said they will boycott next year’s Eurovision.

Spanish broadcaster RTVE said it risked distrust, while Irish national broadcaster RTÉ released a statement decrying the decision:

“Following today’s EBU Winter General Assembly in Geneva at which Israel’s participation in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest was confirmed, RTÉ’s position remains unchanged. RTÉ will not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, nor will RTÉ broadcast the competition.

RTÉ feels that Ireland’s participation remains unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there, which continues to put the lives of so many civilians at risk. RTÉ remains deeply concerned by the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza during the conflict and the continued denial of access to international journalists to the territory.”

Lack of Transparency

Despite the EBU’s claim of transparency, the vote was not disclosed to the public. From a procedural standpoint, political commentators say it was only transparent to its member states, as evidenced in its statement:

“The result of this vote demonstrates our Members’ shared commitment to protecting transparency and trust in the Eurovision Song Contest, the world’s largest live music event.”

“I would like to thank all Members for their thoughtful, respectful and constructive contributions during today’s session and throughout the extensive consultation process undertaken this year.”

“These discussions have led to meaningful changes to the rules of the Eurovision Song Contest, ensuring it remains a place for unity and cultural exchange.”

Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest has long been a talking point, not least due to its geographical location. The country is situated within the Middle East.

Last year’s 2025 winner, JJ of Austria lamented their participation. In an interview with Spanish broadcaster El País, the singer said:

“It is very disappointing to see that Israel continues to participate in the contest,”…“I would like next year’s Eurovision to take place in Vienna without Israel,”